The Safety Gap Podcast: Episode 5 - Drone-Delivered Emergency Aid with Archer First Response Systems

In this episode of The Safety Gap, hosts Cassidy Shield and Karin Marquez sit down with Gordon Folkes, founder of Archer First Response Systems, to explore how drone technology is reshaping emergency response. Gordon shares the mission behind his company: saving lives through rapid delivery of critical medical equipment like AEDs, Narcan, and even whole blood to emergency scenes. With drones capable of reaching patients in as little as two and a half minutes, Archer is reducing response times and improving outcomes for cardiac arrests, overdoses, and more.
Gordon reflects on the early challenges of launching his company, from navigating regulatory hurdles with the FAA to convincing agencies to adopt this cutting-edge technology. His perseverance paid off in 2023 when regulatory clarity enabled wider implementation, opening doors for drone-based emergency aid to become a reality.
The conversation also delves into the future of drone technology in public safety. Gordon discusses how integrating drones with tools like RapidSOS is simplifying workflows for dispatchers and first responders. By offering simulators and user-friendly systems, Archer makes adoption seamless for agencies. This episode is a fascinating look at how innovation and determination are closing the safety gap in emergency response.